Just like the NBA, the high school summer league is important. It’s important for a couple of reasons. It gives the coaches the chance to work with their younger players by putting them in game situations. Now is the time to see how your 10th grader will react to swarming defenses. Not December when every game matters.
There is only so much that can be told to a player without them experiencing it. Experience and ability is what separates players. Depending on the relationship of the coaches, they will sometime request that their opponent do certain things. They may ask the team to full court press, trap, or attack the rim. All of these normal plays are fairly easy for starters and role players, but for players who haven’t touched the court at all, it’s an eye opener.
Another reason summer league is important is fund raising opportunities. Concessions are often sold at the games. Booster clubs nationwide will tell you that every little bit helps. Successful programs love to add new uniforms, shoes, accessories, etc. Schools rarely budget for things of this nature, so it’s up to the coaches, players, and supporters to raise money. Summer league games provide the opportunity to have a fund raiser that doesn’t require everyone to work it simultaneously. But for those creative enough, you can roll two fund raisers into one. The concession stand will be open, plus they may sell raffle tickets.
One of the most important reasons for summer league, players get to work on their game. Whether you need to improve your three point shooting, defense, or for some, dunking, the summer lends itself to that.
Players are told by coaches what they need to improve on. They are also told what colleges are looking for in players.
Given the schedule the teams play, it is not a surprise to see a player who couldn’t shoot at all, become a top shooter. It doesn’t matter if it is a boy or girl, coaches want improvement. The players also welcome this. Especially the guys. Why? Because those who plan on entertaining the crowd with their rim rocking dunks, this is their practice.
Dunking at practice isn’t the same rush as dunking in a game with people watching and cheering. Coaches don’t care if you miss those dunks now. But in the fall, if you can’t put it down, don’t try it.
As with any environment where learning is to commence, a laid back atmosphere is great. Laid back but realistic enough to grab your attention. That’s summer league ball.
Coaches wear shorts, players try out new shoes, parents don’t rush from work, but still make it, and you get a sneak peak at your team. I encourage all reading to catch a summer league game. Admission is usually $3. Support your old high school or support the high school your children are going to now. Take the opportunity to show that you appreciate the work put in by everyone now, so you can really cheer in the fall.
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